New to Rowing and Regattas?
It must seem a blur to those of you for whom this is your child’s first season of rowing and/or first regatta. It is for seasoned crew parents as well! Please bear with the sometimes late information about regattas and last-minute requests for papers, etc.
Note that not every rower competes in each regatta. And boat lineups can change based on rower availability and attendance, as well as on the particular nature of the regatta. Therefore, it is very important that you ask your coach which regattas you might be rowing in and plan accordingly.
If you want a “primer” on rowing and regattas, go to US Rowing’s website (www.usrowing.org). They have two pages, “Parents” and “New to Rowing?” that are useful and informative. They won’t deal with our specific agendas and issues, but are helpful nonetheless. New Canaan Crew has its own brochure So What's a Regatta? that is very helpful.
Weather & Rowing Attire
As the weather is changing at the beginning of the spring season and the end of the fall season, the athletes' practice attire needs to change as well. Long spandex (pants and tops), and a splash jacket/vest should be in their gym bags, as well as sweats for after practice. They should also bring hats and warm footgear. Once the sun starts going down...even if it was a warm day...the temperatures drop!
For regattas, rowers should wear their unisuit with a wicking shirt underneath (shirt and spandex for novices), socks, light jacket and stretch pants if very cool. These can be rolled down before the start. In addition, please pack a bag with sneakers or boots, raingear, extra socks, layers to stay warm. It is VERY important to bring enough dry, warm clothing for a long day outside!
We are an outdoor sport....and need to dress for it!
Nutrition for Rowers Rowers should also bring some water and healthy snacks to regattas and practice. While there is usually plenty of food at the regatta, rowers sometimes can't get to the food tent ahead of their event.
Top 10 Snacks for Athletes: 1. 1/2 peanut butter and jelly sandwich
2. granola bars (Nature Valley, Lara, Kashi)
3. fresh fruit (bananas, apples, oranges, grapes, etc.)
4. trail mix
5. lowfat yougurt
6. pretzels
7. smoothies (without dairy pre-workout)
8. string cheese, whole grain crackers
9. cereal with milk
10. carrot sticks and hummus
BEST CHOICE PRE-WORKOUT: #2, 3, 6 and 7
BEST CHOICE POST-WORKOUT: all but #6
